Manawa drill team seeks new members
By Holly Neumann
In 1999, eight friends performed a short flag presentation to the strains of “Stars and Stripes Forever” at the Mid-Western Rodeo.
From there, the Rodeo City Riders Drill Team was born.
Over the years, the group has improved in all aspects of their show, from length and complexity of the routine, to more elaborate outfits for both horses and riders and increased number of rodeo performances.
Thirteen years later, the group is looking for some new members.
“We have nine members, but unfortunately we don’t have the ideal number to contract with rodeos this year,” said Monica Geiger, drill team co-captain. “This will be a rebuilding year for our team, so we can come back stronger next year and years to come.”
According to Geiger, they are always looking for ways to expand and grow their team.
“The ideal drill team rider has intermediate or above riding experience, knows how to use leg cues and neck reining,” she said. “They are able to assess a situation and react accordingly during rodeo performance or public experiences, dedicated to seeing the group improve, motivated to continuously improve individual horsemanship and welcome feedback from others.”
The rider should also have a drill team horse that does not kick, bite or buck.
“Their horse should be compatible in gait, height and attitude to other drill horses,” Geiger said. “They should know leg cues and neck reining and must be calm in rodeo and parade atmospheres. They should also have the ability to pick up speed or slow down on command and stop immediately.”
Participants must be willing to join the Rodeo City Riders Saddle Club by paying a membership fee of $10 for single or $15 for family.
“Aside from paying a membership, girls need to attend 75 percent of practices in order to be eligible to ride in a performance,” Geiger said. “Horse and rider readiness will determine who will ride at the rodeo venue. The leadership team will make the final decision on the performance team.”
Those interested in joining the drill team are welcome to participate in the RCR New Rider Orientation, at 1 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 25, at Bear Lake Resort, N4715 State Highway 22/110, in Manawa.
“The new rider orientation will consist of an overall insight of where the team stands in our rebuilding year. We will go over the drill team handbook and practice schedule as well as share drill team experiences and answer any questions,” Geiger said.
The RCR has also hosted a youth clinic for three years to expose young cowgirls to the life of drill team and what it takes to be a Rodeo City Rider.
“We are proud to see that the Pink Ribbon Rebels youth drill team has aspired from our youth clinic,” Geiger said.
The group also participates in the Snodeo, which is held at Bear Lake Campground in Manawa in February.
“Only a Wisconsin Drill Team can start the best sport on dirt, in the snow,” she said.
People may receive more information about the drill team and the club by visiting rodeocityriders.webs.com or finding the team on Facebook. Geiger may also be reached at 920-740-3354.